Ryan Gosling
Early Life
Ryan Thomas Gosling was born on November 12, 1980, in London, Ontario, Canada. His parents, Thomas Ray Gosling and Donna Gosling, were both working-class individuals, with his father being a travelling salesman for a paper mill and his mother being a secretary. Gosling was raised in a strict Mormon household, which greatly influenced his upbringing.
Career Beginnings
Gosling's first foray into the entertainment industry was through the Disney Channel's Mickey Mouse Club in 1993, where he was a cast member alongside future stars such as Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and Justin Timberlake. His time on the show was a formative experience, providing him with a foundation in acting, singing, and dancing.
Breakthrough
Gosling's breakthrough role came in 2001 with the film "The Believer," where he played a Jewish neo-Nazi. His performance was lauded by critics and audiences alike, earning him a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Male Lead.
Mainstream Success
Gosling achieved mainstream success with the 2004 romantic drama "The Notebook," based on the Nicholas Sparks' novel of the same name. His portrayal of Noah Calhoun, a young man in love with a woman from a higher social class, was met with critical acclaim. The film was a commercial success, grossing over $115 million worldwide.
Continued Success and Critical Acclaim
Gosling continued to build on his success with roles in films such as "Half Nelson" (2006), "Lars and the Real Girl" (2007), "Blue Valentine" (2010), and "Drive" (2011). His performances in these films garnered him several award nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role in "Half Nelson."
In 2016, Gosling starred in the critically acclaimed musical film "La La Land," alongside Emma Stone. His performance earned him his second Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
Personal Life
Gosling is in a long-term relationship with actress Eva Mendes, with whom he has two daughters. He is known for his privacy and rarely discusses his personal life in the media.
Philanthropy
Gosling is actively involved in several charitable causes, including PETA, Invisible Children, and the Enough Project. He has traveled to Chad, eastern Congo, and Darfur to bring attention to the ongoing conflicts in these regions.
Filmography
Gosling's filmography spans over two decades and includes a variety of genres, from romantic dramas to action thrillers. Some of his most notable films include "The Notebook" (2004), "Half Nelson" (2006), "Drive" (2011), and "La La Land" (2016).